[Arteriovenous fistula and related techniques: creation and follow-up]

In chronic haemodialysis the arteriovenous fistula is the angioaccess that has the longest survival. Its surgical creation has been considerably improved by microsurgery, notably in children. A sufficient time lag between the creation and use of the fistula is of paramount importance. The arteviovenous bridge-graft is used when the superficial venous system has been destroyed. Its survival is jeopardized by the risk of stenosis of the venous anastomosis and by the risk of infection. Venous catheterization through the internal jugular vein (never through the subclavian vein) is a temporary solution pending the arteriovenous approach; it is sometimes a permanent, but then highly risky, solution.